One question that RV dealers hear frequently is about the lifespan of a motorhome or travel trailer. The answer can be based on the average results of previous owners and varies by make and model. However, any RV is going to last longer if it is well-cared for and regularly maintained by qualified technicians.
The Quick Answer
An RV average lifespan of an RV is around 12 years. That can be extended by 12 to 20 more years with regular maintenance and repairs done by authorized RV dealers. Many RVs on the road today were manufactured between the 1970s and 1990s, but have been carefully serviced since they were new. The more time you are willing to put into protecting your investment, the better the investment will be.Protect the Exterior
The roof is the major weakness of motorhomes and trailers alike. Clean it often, inspect it regularly, and make repairs immediately. The exterior panels are typically made of thin aluminum and should be inspected for punctures, split joints, or other damages often. Have repairs done by an authorized professional. Reputable RV dealers can provide you with the right materials and technical know-how for all makes and models of RV. It might be cheaper to buy off-brand parts and do the work yourself, but RV dealers have access to OEM parts and having the work done by a professional means less work, worry, and the assurance of a job well done.Interior Damage
Water is your biggest enemy inside the RV. Leaks can cause interior damage such as walls growing mold, ceiling to cave-ins, and your rotting floors. In addition to checking the roof and exterior, inspect your interior plumbing regularly and looks for tell-tale discoloration on the ceiling which indicates a potential problem. Just as RV dealers have the tools and materials for your RV roof, they also know the intricate details of how the interior is constructed. From repairing a ceiling to replacing worn-out appliances, your RV dealers are a critical part of keeping your RV on the road for many years.Keep It Rolling
Keeping your RV motor in good running condition is much cheaper than paying for major repairs. Regular fluid changes, tuneups, filter replacements can add hundreds of thousands of miles to your engine life.Tires, brakes, and bearings all wear out over time, and ignoring their replacement when it is necessary can lead to serious complications. Check your tires before moving your RV every time. RV. Beyond that, have your camper serviced by qualified RV dealers at least once a year and every 20,000 miles of use. Ultimately, how long your RV will last depends on how well you take care of it, including having your repairs done by authorized RV dealers. With a little loving care, it might last for 20 years or more. Because an RV is a serious investment, keeping it in top shape for as long as possible means enjoying a much greater return on the investment.
